How should the promise of Jesus' return affect our daily Christian walk? The Promise in Revelation 1:7 “Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him—even those who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him. So shall it be! Amen.” Living with Expectant Eyes • The verse fixes our gaze on a real, visible return; we are not left wondering whether Jesus will keep His word. • Expectation changes perspective—today’s frustrations shrink when we know the King is on His way (Romans 8:18). • Like servants watching the door, we learn to spot His hand in daily events (Matthew 24:42–44). Pursuing Purity and Holiness • 1 John 3:2–3: “Everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.” • Hope is a cleansing agent—“He is coming soon” reminds us sin is never private; the returning Lord will inspect His household. • Practical steps: – Guard what we watch, read, and scroll. – Confess quickly (1 John 1:9). – Choose companions who stir holiness (Proverbs 13:20). Energizing Our Mission • Titus 2:11–13 links grace-filled living with “waiting for the blessed hope—the glorious appearance.” • The gospel matters because time is short; the same clouds that carry Jesus will close the age of opportunity. • Feet on the go: – Speak of Christ when the Spirit nudges (Colossians 4:5–6). – Invest resources in eternal returns (Matthew 6:19–21). – Pray for laborers (Matthew 9:37–38). Strengthening Our Perseverance • 1 Thessalonians 4:16–18 ends with “Therefore encourage one another with these words.” • Suffering feels lighter when the trumpet blast is next on God’s calendar. • Endurance habits: – Memorize promises of His coming (James 5:7–9). – Hold lightly to possessions (Hebrews 10:34–35). – Keep serving: “Your labor in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58). Nurturing Community and Love • Hebrews 10:24–25 ties gathering together to “the Day approaching.” • Jesus’ return motivates reconciliation—nothing to gain by holding grudges when eternity is near. • Practice: – Meet regularly for worship and fellowship. – Encourage one another’s gifts (1 Peter 4:10–11). – Forgive quickly, love deeply (1 Peter 4:8). Cultivating Worship and Hopeful Joy • Revelation begins with the vision of His coming so worship will shape the rest of the book. • Joy grows when we sing about the returning King (Psalm 96:11–13). • Daily rhythm: – Start mornings with praise for future glory. – Let music and Scripture lift horizons beyond headlines. – Celebrate the Lord’s Supper “until He comes” (1 Corinthians 11:26). Staying Watchful and Ready • 2 Peter 3:11–14 asks, “What kind of people ought you to be?” • Readiness is active, not passive—like bridesmaids trimming lamps (Matthew 25:1–13). • Checklist for readiness: – Clear conscience. – Open Bible. – Willing hands. – Expectant heart. Walking Today in Light of Tomorrow Jesus’ promised return turns ordinary moments into eternal investments, urges purity, fuels mission, deepens community, and fills every step with hope. Live alert, live holy, live joyful—your King is on the clouds. |
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